Landmark building is saved
 | | The Turnmill building |
A FORMER nightclub dubbed "the gateway to Clerkenwell" has been saved from demolition after a fierce battle by conservation campaigners.
English Heritage, The Victorian Society and Save Britain's Heritage joined forces to help stop developers bulldozing the landmark Turnmill building, which has stood at the corner of Clerkenwell Road and Turnmill Street for over 120 years.
The Victorian building, originally used as stables and warehouses, became famous as the home of legendary superclub Turnmills in the 1990s before its closure in March last year.
But plans to flatten it and build a seven-storey office, shops and café complex with a modern glass extension in its place have been unanimously thrown out by Islington Council.
Councillor George Allan, chairman of the south area planning committee, said: "It was just too big and overbearing. It effectively acts as a gateway to Clerkenwell and it altered the proportion and appearance of other buildings such as [Grade II* listed] Sessions House, which is just around the corner." The Turnmills building stands in Islington's first-ever Conservation Area, set up in 1968 - but its interior is dilapidated and it is not listed for protection by the Government.
Councillor Allan, normally a fierce champion of modern architecture, said developers London Derwent had not even tried to find other uses for the existing building - and did not rule out it becoming a nightclub once again.
"They hadn't taken any steps to market the building," said Councillor Allan. "It is strongly identified by the council as one worth retaining. A high proportion of buildings in the conservation area are not listed, but it doesn't mean you don't take steps to protect them.
"There are obvious difficulties about nightclubs and we are consulting about declaring the area saturated with bars. But on the other hand there's a restaurant in the building already and it has been used as a gym in the past - there could be again."
He added: "There are many uses that don't require it to have the latest high-tech office specifications. Let's find out what's out there first."
Dorian Crone, English Heritage's historic buildings advisor, said: "Although not architecturally sophisticated, the Turnmill building has a robust industrial quality. The proposed building, due to its height and design, would harm the setting of the listed Sessions House. We strongly object to the proposals."
London Derwent declined to comment as the Gazette went to press. It is not known whether they will appeal Islington Council's decision.
Turnmills was the first 24-hour dance club in Britain and was owned by the family of top DJ Tall Paul. Stars including The Chemical Brothers, Fatboy Slim and Judge Jules played at its closing party.
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